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BIM leader Graphisoft to introduce EcoDesigner Star in late January event

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Graphisoft will be introducing the next generation of EcoDesigner Star, its building energy modeling software that works in tandem with its award-winning BIM solution ArchiCAD 16.

EcoDesigner Star enables architects to use ArchiCAD’s building information model (BIM) directly as a building energy model (BEM). This ensures streamlined collaboration between designers and energy consultants. The Graphisoft-produced EcoDesigner Star software offers architects and energy professionals standard-compliant energy analyses on the BEM and produces a detailed building performance report, all within the familiar ArchiCAD design environment.

Event Details

Graphisoft will be hosting a live event to showcase EcoDesigner Star on 29 January 2013. They will present the M Labs research center, designed by Eurobuild, a company specializing in the design of low energy buildings. Eurobuild was one of the first design teams to utilize EcoDesigner Star in their workflow and relies on it to create their noted work. There is a teaser video here.

To learn more about Graphisoft EcoDesigner go here. There are no product details yet on this new Star version of EcoDesigner.

Architosh Analysis

We have long been impressed with EcoDesigner integration within ArchiCAD. Back in 2009 when it was introduced Viktor Varkonyi, CEO of Graphisoft, spoke to Architosh at length about the new software. (see, “AIA: Talking to Viktor Varkonyi about EcoDesigner,” Architosh, 17 May 2009) What we noted back then was the uniqueness of having energy analysis fully integrated into a BIM solution, rather than asking users to export out to external energy analysis software–of which there are many choices.

As ArchiCAD has always been conceived first and foremost as a tool for architects, it is design-centric in its philosophy. Varkonyi has argued that what architects need at the time of schematic design is the ability to instantly see energy implications in various design study and options. And to use this ability throughout the design process. Forcing designers to export out to get this information is an extra step one could argue is time-consuming and unnecessary. It is a point that has not been lost on us.